By Shakeel Ur Rehman
Defending champions Pakistan U19 made a winning start to the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2026, defeating the United Arab Emirates U19 by nine wickets in the tournament’s opening match. Pakistan chased down the target of 225 runs, losing just one wicket to register a comprehensive victory.
Opener Usman Khan was the star of the match, producing a magnificent unbeaten century. He scored 139 not out off 120 balls, smashing 21 fours and one six. His opening partner, Jahangir Bilal, also made a valuable contribution with 60 runs off 87 deliveries, including six boundaries.
The opening pair laid the foundation for Pakistan’s victory with a brilliant 153-run partnership for the first wicket. After Jahangir’s dismissal, Usman continued his impressive batting, adding an unbeaten 72 runs for the second wicket with Abdul Qadir to guide Pakistan home in 37.3 overs.
Abdul Qadir remained unbeaten on 20, while Usman finished on 139 not out as Pakistan reached 225 for one.
Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and elected to field. The UAE U19 team was bowled out for 224 in its allotted 50 overs.
For the UAE, Noorullah Ayobi top-scored with an aggressive 70 off 55 balls, hitting three fours and six sixes. Yayin Rai contributed 47 runs, while Zainullah Rahmani added 28.
For Pakistan, Mohammad Siam led the bowling attack with an impressive spell, taking three wickets for 37 runs. Ali Raza, Rizwanullah and Hasnain Abbas Dar claimed two wickets each, while Naqab Shafiq picked up one wicket.
Pakistan’s all-round performance, featuring disciplined bowling and outstanding batting, ensured a convincing nine-wicket victory. Usman Khan’s unbeaten 139 was undoubtedly the highlight of the opening encounter, as the defending champions began their title defence in impressive fashion.
